Learning Experience

Exactly how you learn at Newcastle depends largely on what you’re studying. Lectures and seminars play a role in most degrees. You may also encounter a number of other teaching methods, for example language classes, laboratory work, work placements or fieldwork. 

Our students also have the chance to learn through getting involved in research, for example by undertaking a research project in the final year, or through a summer vacation undergraduate research scholarship scheme

All of our degrees are divided into Stages. Each Stage lasts for an academic year. Our degrees are also structured to encourage increasing independence at each Stage. 

Influence your degree experience

As you progress through your degree you will have opportunities to tailor your study to your particular interests through a range of options, often shaped by the research interests of our staff.

We also encourage our students to get involved in shaping their degree by becoming a course representative on their subject’s staff–student committee. There are over 950 course reps at Newcastle, all of whom receive training for the role from the Students’ Union. Official recognition of your activities as a course representative is also available through our ncl+ scheme.

Teaching methods

+ Lectures (large group teaching)

  • Delivered by a subject expert who introduces the topic and highlights current thinking around the subject
  • Used to provide background information rather than everything you need to know, so expect plenty of signposts to further reading/independent study
  • Some lectures may be interactive. For example, your lecturer may ask you to vote on a question using wireless keypads which integrate with PowerPoint, allowing the results to be displayed instantly for further discussion
  • Many lectures are recorded by our recording system, ReCap. This means you have the chance to revisit the lecture material to help you clarify anything you have not understood, or for revision purposes

+ Seminars (small group teaching)

  • Consist of a small group meeting led by a tutor
  • Include a range of activities and may be used to help you extend or apply knowledge of topics that have been covered in lectures and/or to support your development of skills such as problem-solving or oral presentation
  • Usually require advance preparation of work, which you may be asked to present to the group or use to contribute to the overall discussion

+ Fieldwork and field visits

  • Offer an excellent way to apply your studies in a practical way or observe and learn from professionals working in your chosen area
  • Locations vary according to their purpose, from a visit to industry to an archaeological dig, and may include residential locations abroad
  • You will normally be expected to keep a record of your learning in the field through a field diary, portfolio, coursework or field presentation, for example

+ Laboratory and practical work

  • Encompass a wide range of teaching including science- or engineering-based lab classes, problem-based classes in a wide range of disciplines and IT workshops 
  • Important in the development of subject-specific skills and other professional skills such as communication and information technologies
  • Take place in specialist facilities – we spend millions of pounds on making sure you have everything you need to bring what you have learnt in the classroom to life
  • Some of the facilities we have, particularly in science and engineering, are funded through research grants so you’ll be using some of the very latest equipment available – often the same (or better) than the industry is using
  • You can take a virtual tour of many of our academic facilities

+ Work-related learning

Some of our degrees include an integrated year in industry or opportunities to use your skills in a business setting, such as a consultancy role or a project involving a problem set by industry.

The Careers Service and your tutors will provide support to help you get a placement that will further your learning and boost your career prospects.

Many of our degrees also build the Careers Service's Career Development module into their curriculum. This lets you use your work experience, volunteering or part-time job to count towards your degree.

You may also choose to take part in enterprise activities, to help you develop your skills in entrepreneurship. Some of our students have even developed their own successful businesses during their time at University!